As far as celebrity endorsements go, political backing from Russell Crowe, the Oscar-winning actor and Sydney resident, might be more a curse than a blessing. Just days after Crowe backed Julia Gillard for the 2013 election, where he famously denounced a "lack of gallantry" in Australian politics at the same time, Gillard was deposed in a leadership coup more bloody than the Colosseum floor after a gladiatorial swordfest.

The warning signs clearly haven't reached Malcolm Turnbull. On Thursday, Crowe took to Twitter to impart more political advice, this time summoning the shadow communications minister to depose the opposition leader, Tony Abbott, and take the reins of the Liberal party ahead of the federal election.

It took the federal member for Wentworth, the electorate where Crowe also resides, just minutes to respond. "Thanks Russell! You are very generous to your local member," he said.

Crowe may have a knack for picking the loser, but he also has a knack for bringing in the news. Turnbull's reply, which didn't rule out a leadership bid, might be perceived as a change of tone from his previous line on the Liberal leadership. Earlier in the month Turnbull ruled a leadership attempt out.

Either way, Crowe has admitted he has no electoral ability to help his preferred candidate back into office. The New Zealand-born actor subsequently told his Twitter followers he did not have the vote in Australia.